Good morning, Bloomington.

Lawrence County World War II veteran James “Lee” Hutchinson recalled flying dangerous bombing missions in a B-17 and said the war taught him that life is yours to do what you want to do—he will attend the Memorial Day event on May 26 at the Lawrence County Courthouse Mall and celebrate his 100th birthday on June 14 at First Baptist Church in Bedford.

Most restaurants in Bloomington will open on Memorial Day, May 26, with chains like Chick-fil-A and Chipotle serving regular hours—although individual hours may vary—and banks and post offices closing for the holiday.

Monroe County Community School Corporation cut 61 nonclassroom positions, mostly custodial, health aide and food service roles, to end the school year and reduce costs amid lower state funding and falling enrollment.

Superintendent Markay Winston said natural attrition will leave many support roles unfilled while teacher and administrative positions will be filled to manage a projected $17 million funding gap over the next three years.

Indiana University closed its Office of the Vice President for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion effective today to comply with state and federal guidelines — it also renamed the Office of Institutional Equity to the Office of Civil Rights Compliance to clarify its responsibilities.

Indiana University closed its DEI office effective May 22 to follow new state and federal rules that limit DEI programs (the school said some student services will shift to other offices) and did not answer questions about potential layoffs or changes to scholarships.

Bloomington launched a city branding initiative, WeAreBloomington, to redefine its identity and boost economic participation; residents can share ideas via an online survey through June 16.

The city is working with CivicBrand—hired for $95,000—to develop a new image that Mayor Kerry Thomson said will communicate its strengths and values, with final materials expected by early 2026.

Indiana University researcher Dr. D.

Wade Clapp and British biotech firm Healx have begun Phase 2 trials for HLX-1502, a drug that shrinks tumors in patients with neurofibromatosis type 1. The trial enrolls 20 patients through the Neurofibromatosis Clinical Trials Consortium and follows promising lab tests in cells and mice—an effort that may lead to treatments with fewer side effects.

Bloomington South won its second straight sectional title by beating Bloomington North 4-1 and Owen Valley 4-1 on May 23; coach Matt Corry said the team grew through a rebuilding season.

The Panthers will face Greencastle in the Brownsburg Regional semifinals on Tuesday, May 27 at 5:30 p.m. (the team features a mix of returning doubles players and emerging singles talent).

PMP Certification Classroom Training

9 AM – 5 PM — Regus, 3802 E 3rd St, Bloomington, IN — Contact for pricing — Immerse yourself in 32 hours of comprehensive project management training with money-back guarantee and e-learning access.

LCF - Blooming10

3:30-6:30 p.m. — Buskirk-Chumley Theater — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a showcase featuring ten of Bloomington’s finest comedians at the Limestone Comedy Festival.

INDY APT Event at The Pfau Course

18-hole Stroke Play — All Day — The Pfau Course — Compete for VISA Gift cards and trophies in various divisions.

Bit Brigade Live in Bloomington, IN

7-11 p.m. — The Bishop Bar — 18+ entry — Experience a thrilling blend of rock music and live NES speedrunning with Bit Brigade.

Summer Prospect Camp

10 a.m. - 4 p.m. — Bill Armstrong Stadium — Check the event page for pricing details — A dedicated soccer camp for female athletes looking to enhance their skills.

Southern Junior Masters Golf Tournament

Sunday – Monday — The Pfau Course — Registration required — A premier tournament showcasing Indiana's top junior golfers competing in stroke play.

Breakthrough Basketball Essential Skills Camp

June 17-19 — Twin Lakes Recreation Center — $97 for observing coaches — Enhance your basketball skills with high-intensity drills and character building.

Frank Solo Performance

7-9 p.m. — The Vault Pub — Check local listings for entry fee — Enjoy an evening of solo music in a cozy pub setting.

Rainbow Birders Nature Walk

4-5 p.m. — RCA Community Park Playground — Registration required — Discover native plants and their impact on Indiana's wildlife in a hands-on nature walk.

CAMP SESSION 3

12:00 AM - 11:59 PM — Counsilman Billingsley Aquatic Center — Age Range 3-18 — Dive into a week of water sports fun at this co-ed camp in Bloomington.