Friday, May 15th, 2026
Good morning, Bloomington. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 15th of May.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ New Leaf New Life in Bloomington offers reentry plans, job and housing assistance, and volunteer support to those rebuilding after incarceration. Its efforts have lowered recidivism and fostered hope among individuals working for a fresh start in the community. The Herald-Times
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Secretly, the record company (founded in 1996) will celebrate its 30th anniversary with three concerts from Aug. 27-29. The shows at The Bluebird, Buskirk-Chumley Theater, and Switchyard Park will feature local and international acts. The Herald-Times
- ➤ Buskirk-Chumley Theater has scheduled multiple events in May in Bloomington + including a screening of 'Mamma Mia!' today at 7 p.m., the Cosmic Songwriter Festival with Clayton Anderson on May 16 at 7 p.m., an improv show on May 18, and a benefit concert for Stone Belt on May 30. The Bloomingtonian
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Brett Seidle was named IU’s chief advisor for national security R&D on May 11 and will strengthen defense innovation at the Applied Research Center — linking research with industry and academic expertise. Indiana University
- ➤ Today, more than 500 students graduated at the IU Auditorium as Ivy Tech Bloomington’s commencement celebrated over 1,300 students earning credentials such as nurses, EMTs and skilled trades that will boost our local workforce plus fuel our regional economy. The Herald-Times
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ William Ramos — an IU associate professor in health and wellness design — offers water safety tips for families entering pools, rivers, lakes, and streams today. He recommends proper supervision, using Coast Guard-approved life jackets, and designating a water watcher while working with Senator Spencer to boost water safety education in Indiana. Indiana University
- ➤ A suspected meningococcal case was reported at Bloomington High School South on May 14; Monroe County health officials said the risk is low for casual contact and began reaching out to those with close exposure—parents were advised to watch for fever, headache, or a stiff neck. The Herald-Times
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ Indiana basketball coach (Darian DeVries) said he learned that the team's strong brand helped attract transfer recruits during his first year in Bloomington. He expects the program's reputation to continue influencing new prospects. The Herald-Times
- ➤ Indiana baseball defeated Illinois 10-4 on Thursday night at Bart Kaufman Field, snapping a five-game losing streak. The team will start the second game of the series today at 6 p.m. Indiana Daily Student
- ➤ Indiana softball will start NCAA Tournament play today at 8 p.m. at Sherri Parker Lee Stadium in Knoxville — the Hoosiers are making their fourth straight NCAA appearance after finishing a 41-13 season. Indiana Daily Student
- ➤ Coach Darian DeVries said on Thursday that Notre Dame transfer guard Markus Burton shows a really impressive skill set that could boost the team in Bloomington (his comments point to high hopes for the season). The Herald-Times
- ➤ Indiana football coach Curt Cignetti said he is leaving the playoff expansion debate to power brokers while expressing support for Tony Petitti's plan for a 24-team format; the 2026 season will stick with 12 teams as conferences continue discussions. The Herald-Times
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INDY Golf Tournament at The Pfau Course
Time Range — The Pfau Course — Cost — Experience a challenging 7,241-yard championship course in a stunning natural setting.
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Case Oats Album Release Concert
8 PM - 12 AM — The Bishop Bar — 18+ entry — Experience the debut album of Case Oats, a blend of alt-country and folk from Chicago's rising star Henry True.
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Sounds From the Black Hole featuring Bubba Fontaine and Byrdman
5:30-8 p.m. — The Orbit Room — $10 + food/drink purchase required — Experience live experimental music from talented local artists.
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One Step Above Annual Dance Performance
6:30 p.m. — Buskirk-Chumley Theater — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an evening of diverse dance styles showcased by local kids, including a special dad routine.
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Pinball League and Trivia Night
6:30-10:30 p.m. — The Orbit Room — Food or drink purchase required — Compete in a pinball tournament and test your trivia skills for a chance to win gift certificates.
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Joe Jordan Concert
7-11 p.m. — The Bluebird — Ticket info available online — Experience the smooth vocals and rich R&B sounds of Joe Jordan live.
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The Goonies | 15 Years, 15 Hits
4 PM — Indiana University Cinema — Ticket info not provided — Experience an epic adventure with a classic treasure hunt as the Goonies embark on a thrilling quest.
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Strawberry Shortcake Festival
All day — Switchyard Park Pavilion — $9 Strawberry Shortcakes and $5 Hot Dog Specials — Indulge in sweet treats and family-friendly fun at this local festival.
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Tales of Ambergrove at Nexus Convergence
10 AM - 6 PM — Bloomington Convention Center — Free entry — Explore video games, TTRPGs, and unique vendors at this exciting game-themed convention.
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No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
The shoe that fits one person pinches another.
~ Carl Jung
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