Saturday, January 3rd, 2026
Good morning, Peoria. Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 3rd of January.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ The East Peoria Boat Club held its 22nd annual Polar Plunge Wednesday as 125 jumpers braved chilly waters to support local charities such as Greater Peoria Honor Flight + Ark Animal Shelter + the Picket Fence Foundation. Organizers set a goal to raise over $10,000 while continuing a 22-year run that has raised $217,000. WMBD
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ Peoria Zoo director Max Lakes explains that winter lets many animals shine as lions play in the snow and zebras graze at the East Bluff location while reptiles and tortoises stay indoors until warmer weather arrives. Visitors should check which species they want to see before planning their trip. 25 News Now
HEALTH NEWS
- ➤ Carle Health Methodist in Peoria welcomed its first baby of the new year when Philip Elwood Sheahan was born (5:43 a.m.) to first-time parents Kelsea and Kevin. 25 News Now
- ➤ OSF HealthCare will begin a national search for a new foundation president after Tom Hammerton retires effective April 3 — the longtime leader increased the foundation's assets and led capital campaigns that supported OSF Children's Hospital and other local programs. 25 News Now
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ SPHL will add two games to its season next season so each team will play 60 games with 30 at home and 30 away. Commissioner Doug Price said the change comes as the league grows and plans to add Mobile for a future season. 25 News Now
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Glass Blowing Ornaments Workshop
6-8 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — $65 for three pieces — Learn to blow glass and create unique ornaments in this fun, hands-on workshop.
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Fused Glass Snowmen Workshop
2-4 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — Class fee for snowman creation — Create personalized fused glass snowmen while enjoying festive snacks and drinks.
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Valentine's Day Prints Pop-Up
12-4 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — $25 deposit towards custom artwork — Create personalized pottery pieces in time for Valentine’s Day.
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Coffee @ the Clubhouse
10 AM – 12 PM — Shore Acres Clubhouse — Free entry — Enjoy coffee and treats while taking in beautiful views with friends.
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Boop the Snoot: Winter Moose Canvas Class
6-8 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — All supplies included — Paint an adorable moose in a guided class perfect for beginners and experienced artists alike.
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Glass Blowing Ornament Workshop
1:30-3:30 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — $65 for 3 ornaments — Unleash your creativity with a fun glass blowing session and create your own unique treasures.
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Valentine's Day Keepsake Prints for Kids and Pets
12-1 p.m. — The Clay Den — Pricing varies based on number of prints — Create personalized clay prints of tiny hands and paws for cherished memories.
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Letter Holder Clay Hand Building Class
4:00 – 5:30 PM — The Clay Den — All materials included — Create a beautiful and practical ceramic wall-hanging letter holder in a relaxed atmosphere.
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Mystery Box Clay Night – Hand-Building Edition
5:30-7:30 p.m. — The Clay Den — $30-$50 — Unleash your creativity with a surprise clay project in a fun and supportive environment.
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Spring Luminary Workshop
1:00 – 2:30 PM — Fondulac District Library — Registration required — Create a personalized wine bottle luminary with decorative tattoos and twinkling lights.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
No man ever steps in the same river twice, for it's not the same river and he's not the same man.
~ Heraclitus
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