Good morning, Peoria.

Peoria Zoo euthanized two beloved animals on Feb.

20 due to age-related illnesses; Sultana + Violet, a red-river hog and a miniature donkey who joined the zoo in 2008 and 2001 respectively, were cared for by local staff. Officials said the decision followed careful consultation with veterinarians.

Ten top Caterpillar technicians competed Tuesday at the Edwards Demonstration and Learning Center to determine the best in the world; the winner will be announced at CONEXPO-CON/AGG in Las Vegas March 3-7.

Maj. Robert Henry Lawrence Jr. (one of the nation’s earliest black space pioneers) is honored by Bradley University with a memorial scholarship and a bronze statue outside Olin Hall, preserving his legacy in space research and serving as a reminder of his trailblazing role.

On Feb. 24, forever chemicals (PFAS) were found above EPA limits in several Illinois public drinking water systems, including one serving Peoria that was slightly over the standard.

The EPA set enforceable limits in 2024 to help ensure water safety.

Seven Peoria-area girls basketball teams have advanced to the Sweet Sixteen and will face sectional finals on Thursday.

Mt. Sterling Brown County meets Havana at 6:30 p.m. at Bushnell-Prairie City+ other local matchups in Classes 1A, 3A and 4A continue their playoff runs.

Peoria-area athletes are set to compete in the 2026 IHSA girls wrestling state finals on Friday, Feb.

27 at Grossinger Motors Arena in Bloomington where 16 local wrestlers will face off at various weight classes.

Tissue Box Clay Hand Building Class

4:00-5:30 p.m. — The Clay Den — All materials included — Create a custom tissue box cover in this hands-on clay class for all skill levels.

Flower Chip and Dip Dish Clay Hand Building Class

5:30-7 p.m. — The Clay Den — $ — Create your own floral-inspired chip and dip dish while learning hand-building techniques in a fun and creative environment.

Bob Ross Wet-on-Wet Oil Painting: Mountain Waterfall

9 AM – 12 PM — Art at the Bodega — Supplies included — Unleash your inner artist with a serene landscape painting class inspired by Bob Ross.

Gnome Clay Hand Building Class

4-5:30 p.m. — The Clay Den — $45 — Craft your festive St. Patrick’s Day gnome with guided clay hand-building fun!

Charcuterie Board Clay Hand Building Class

5:30-7:30 p.m. — The Clay Den — All materials included — Design and craft your own unique ceramic charcuterie board in a fun, beginner-friendly class.

Wall Planter Clay Hand Building Class

1-7 p.m. — The Clay Den — All materials included — Create a personalized wall pocket planter in this fun, beginner-friendly class!

Cross Clay Hand Building Workshop

1-2:30 p.m. — The Clay Den — All materials included — Create a beautiful clay cross in a relaxed setting suitable for all skill levels.

Fused Glass Snowflakes Workshop

6-8 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — $10 reservation, piece prices range from $33 to $64 — Create a shimmering glass snowflake for your winter décor.

Friday the 13th Spooky Pottery Painting

6-8 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — $10 ticket reserves your seat — Unleash your creativity with spooky pottery painting this Friday the 13th.

2026 Blarney Blitz

8 AM – 2 PM — Kelleher's Irish Pub & Eatery — Entry fees apply — Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with a festive themed race in downtown Peoria.