Saturday, March 29th, 2025

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Good morning, Bloomington. Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 29th of March.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Redbud Books has become a community hub for free speech on West Kirkwood by offering curated books, games, and local art events—managed by a volunteer collective at 408 W Kirkwood Ave. The nonprofit bookstore fills a need after recent free speech restrictions at IU. Indiana Daily Student
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ Chris Fox—Land Stewardship Director at Sycamore Land Trust—discussed springtime trends at Beanblossom Bottoms Nature Preserve in Monroe County, noting new seasonal features for visitors. The Herald-Times
- ➤ Researchers at the Indiana Geological and Water Survey are studying coal waste to check if it holds enough rare earth elements needed for modern technology, using samples from coal tailings and ash. They will work with the Illinois State Geological Survey on a three-year project with U.S. Department of Energy support to assess domestic extraction potential—if technology advances and supply challenges emerge. Indiana University
- ➤ Today, eight local governments partner with Indiana University on a new program run by the Environmental Resilience Institute to boost energy-efficient heat pumps and expand urban tree canopies. Each community will work with IU students this summer to build contractor networks and conduct canopy assessments—steps meant to support their climate goals. Indiana University
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ The City of Bloomington finalized plans to turn parts of Kirkwood Avenue into shared spaces, with set-up starting on March 31 and the full Pedestrian Season from April 4 through November 10 — the 300, 400, and 500 blocks will be fully closed while the 100 block sees a half closure after safety reviews, and new ADA spaces have been added. City staff are coordinating with local businesses on outdoor dining and community events to boost downtown activity. City of Bloomington
- ➤ Gov. Mike Braun announced Friday, March 28 that Jennifer Ruby will serve as Indiana's Public Access Counselor—she brings nearly 15 years of state and local government experience and a strong legal background to boost government transparency by responding to public inquiries and advising on public access laws. WTHR
- ➤ Bloomington Parks and Recreation is using nearly $1 million in American Rescue Plan funds to upgrade accessibility at parks, community centers and transportation services. Planned improvements include construction beginning in April at Building Trades Park—adding concrete paths and a new picnic shelter—as well as a new wheelchair-accessible mini bus, push-button doors, a tactile map at Switchyard Park, park shelter upgrades, an all-terrain wheelchair for spring nature days, and a playground at Bryan Park completed in June 2024. City of Bloomington
- ➤ City officials said the redevelopment commission may discuss a land deal for a hotel to support the Convention Center expansion at the meeting on April 7 while staff do due diligence. Mayor Kerry Thomson and director Jane Kupersmith support the hotel site as developers work to meet the project's timeline. The B Square Bulletin
SHOP NEWS
- ➤ TODAY'S SPONSOR We never have to worry about dead batteries and missed calls thanks to this portable power bank that can charge up to five devices at once. The Buy
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USC at Indiana Baseball Game
12-4 p.m. — Bart Kaufman Field — Watch live baseball action — Catch USC taking on Indiana in an exciting college matchup.
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ZZ Top Concert
7:30-11 p.m. — Brown County Music Center — Ticketed event — Experience legendary rock blues infused with humor and high-energy performances from the iconic ZZ Top.
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Straight No Chaser: Top Shelf Tour
7:30 PM - 11:59 PM | Indiana University Auditorium | Check local listings for ticket prices | Enjoy an evening of captivating a cappella harmonies with Straight No Chaser.
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Hoosier Collegiate Invitational
2-5 p.m. — Bart Kaufman Field — Ticket prices vary — Catch the thrilling matchup between Indiana Hoosiers and Michigan State Spartans live.
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Self Journey Meditation
7-8 p.m. — Neal-Marshall Black Culture Center Library — Few tickets left — Experience a relaxing session with sound bowls enhancing your meditative state.
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2025 Indiana University Info Session
6:30-7:30 p.m. — Kelley School of Business — Free entry — Learn about Bain & Company and opportunities for undergraduate students from Indiana University alumni.
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Aikido Seminar with John Messores Shihan
8 a.m. - 5 p.m. — Aikido of Suenaka-Ha Indiana — All experience levels welcome — Dive into an enriching Aikido seminar led by a renowned Shihan.
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Zentangle Workshop: Mandalas
10 AM – 12 PM — Bloomington Fine Art Supply — Supplies included — Dive into the meditative art of creating Zentangle mandalas with expert guidance.
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Merce Lemon Concert Featuring Fust
7 p.m. — The Bishop Bar — $10 cover — Experience the dynamic blend of alt-country and folk-rock from the beloved band Fust.
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David Sedaris Live in Bloomington
7:30-11:30 p.m. — Indiana University Auditorium — Tickets from $65 — Experience an evening of humor and storytelling with David Sedaris.
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