Good morning, Peoria.

Illinois middle schoolers can now earn high school credit by passing courses taken at their schools, following an amendment to House Bill 3039 effective earlier this year.

Dunlap School District reports nearly 200 students enroll in these classes annually + opening a path to advanced coursework.

Former Peoria City Council member George Jacob, a dedicated community leader, died Sunday at age 61.

He served from 2005 to 2011 and supported local nonprofits (visitation is Thursday evening and Friday morning at Saint Vincent de Paul Catholic Church with a funeral mass Friday afternoon).

The Bartonville Fire Department named Drew Zachman as its new chief after Michael Cheatham stepped down after 20+ years as chief and 50+ years of service.

He was sworn in Monday night by the Village Board, and Cheatham will remain active with the department.

Assistant Chief Drew Zachman was sworn in as the new chief of Bartonville Fire on Monday night after Michael Cheatham stepped down following a 20-year tenure, and Cheatham will stay on as an active member of the department.

U.S. News and World Report published its 2026 retiree rankings Jan.

13, listing several Illinois towns (including Peoria) as good places for retirement. Naperville ranked No. 207 while cities from Elgin to Springfield also made the list.

A newly released shopping guide for runner-approved sneakers offers clear advice on choosing shoes with the right cushioning, fit and support, including brands like Nike+Asics, Brooks and Saucony.

The guide, published yesterday, helps local runners select shoes that keep their workouts safe and comfortable.

The former Dac’s Smokehouse, which closed last year, now offers a turnkey 4,084 sqft storefront at 25 E.

Adams St. in Morton for lease at $14.50 per sqft annually, with features including a fully equipped kitchen, bar, dining area and an outdoor patio for flexible entertainment uses.

A well-known Prospect Road building in Peoria Heights is back on the market after closing several restaurants—village officials say the location has potential for a new business model such as a restaurant, retail or grocery, with Mayor Matthew Wigginton expecting a new tenant soon.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Couples Cozy Clay Mug Hand Building Class

1-2:30 p.m. — The Clay Den — One ticket per couple — Celebrate love and creativity by crafting personalized mugs together this Valentine’s Day.

Strawberry Trinket Dish Clay Hand Building Class

4-5:30 p.m. — The Clay Den — Cost for glazing optional — Craft your unique strawberry-shaped dish in this creative clay workshop.

Bingo while you Paint

6-8 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — $10 admission — Enjoy an evening of creativity with bingo and pottery painting for artistic fun and prizes.

Valentine's Day Prints Pop-Up

12-4 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — $25 deposit required — Create cherished keepsakes with your little ones' prints just in time for Valentine's Day.