Congressman Rodney Davis speaks at the ribbon cutting celebrating the completion of the Historic Route 66 Bike Trail in McLean County on April 19.  He is joined by, among others, Congressman Darin LaHood, Chairman of the Route 66 Road Ahead Partnership
Bill Thomas, and McLean County Board Chairman John McIntyre. (Photo courtesy of Rep. Rodney Davis Office)

McLean County

County leaders recognize Route 66’s role

Elected leaders representing McLean County gathered recently to put the spotlight on Route 66 and its role in health and wellness during local recognition of a national campaign known as National County Health Day.

Last week, County Board chairman John McIntyre led a ribbon cutting of the Historic Route 66 Trail. Other elected officials taking part in the ribbon cutting included County Board member Jacob Beard, state Rep. Dan Brady, state Rep. Tim Butler, Congressman Rodney Davis, Towanda Village Council member Deb Kinsella and Congressman Darin LaHood.

In a statement, McIntyre said the trail will be a positive in a number of ways, including its role as a driver of the local economy. “This trail will not only recognize Route 66’s history, but also encourage more people and businesses to call these communities home,” McIntyre said in the statement.   

Master Gardeners sharing advice at upcoming events

The University of Illinois Extension-McLean County’s Master Gardeners program has returned for this upcoming growing season. UIE’s specialists and educators train the volunteers designated as the master gardeners. The panel is on hand from 9 a.m. to noon Mondays and 1 to 4 p.m. Wednesdays at the University of Illinois Extension McLean County office, 1615 Commerce Parkway, Bloomington. The master gardeners will also be on hand at upcoming farmers’ markets in Bloomington and Downs. To reach a master gardener, call (309) 663-8306 or email uiemg-mclean@illinois.edu.   

Pratt Music Foundation scholarship winner Renata Olivo

Music foundation accepting scholarship applications

The application period for Pratt Music Foundation’s upcoming scholarship program has opened for students in grades 2 to 12. Scholarships are awarded to budding musicians, based on a variety of criteria, including financial need, motivation and talent.

Awardees, who do not need prior experience, will have an opportunity to attend Illinois Wesleyan University’s Music Preparatory Program. Scholarships are available for instruction in piano or string instruments (violin, viola and cello). Scholarship applications are due Thursday, June 1. For information, visit www.prattmusicfoundation.com, email prattmusicfoundation@gmail.com or call (309) 827-5534.    

Bloomington

Pepsi Ice Center advances to final 4   

The Pepsi Ice Center, 201 S. Roosevelt Ave., advanced to the next round in the Kraft Hockeyville USA competition. The venue is one of four finalists in this year’s competition.

Earlier this month, the center was named to Kraft Hockeyville’s top 10 list. The venue receiving the grand prize will be privy to a $150,000 upgrade and an opportunity to host a 2017-18 NHL preseason game. Representatives with Kraft Hockeyville will soon name the grand prize winner of this year’s competition.

City Council continues search for new water supply   

In an effort to expand capacity, ease future drought concerns and combat nitrate levels, Bloomington City Council members are continuing their review of future water supply sources. While a variety of options are on the table, one of the most tangible is a construction contract for two test wells at the Saint Peter Aquifer near a water treatment plant at Lake Bloomington. The project under review is expected to cost $1.8 million.

Retailer DSW to open new store in area

DSW Inc., a footwear and accessories retailer, will open its new Bloomington store in the Empire Crossing shopping center, 1500 Empire Road, on Thursday, April 27.

“We’re excited to open a new shopping destination in the Bloomington area,” Valara Gee, vice president of stores, said in a statement. “As DSW’s footprint continues to grow, we’re committed to delivering a shopping experience that exceeds the expectations to our customer.”

Plans call for a ribbon cutting shortly before the store opening. City officials and DSW representatives will be on hand at the pre-opening ceremony.

Normal

Attorney General Madigan visiting ISU for Law Day

Illinois State Attorney General Lisa Madigan will serve as the keynote speaker of Illinois State University’s annual Law Day luncheon, slated for Wednesday, May 3. Madigan will speak on, “The 14th Amendment: Transforming American Democracy.” Under the 14th Amendment, American citizens are guaranteed due process rights and equality under the law. Congress in 1961 designated Law Day as an annual event to mark the nation’s commitment to the rule of law.   

Veteran council member recognized for service  

Cheryl Gaines, a member of the Normal Town Council for nearly a quarter century, was honored recently for her years of elected service to the community.

Gaines’ elected colleagues recognized her at a meeting Monday, April 17 with a special ordinance of appreciation and commendation. Throughout her tenure, Gaines served the community alongside three mayors, 15 council members and attended more than 500 council meetings and hundreds of special events within the town.

–McLean County News Briefs–